our alumni

John Gaeddert, MPH ’10

After earning a bachelor’s degree in anthropology from the
University at Buffalo in 2002, John Gaeddert spent several years in
the working world. “I gradually realized that I wanted a
degree that would let me work in a variety of industries and take
on a variety of challenges, such as infectious disease outbreaks,
global climate change, disaster preparedness and health behavior
promotion,” he said.

“I knew that UB would be much more affordable than a private college.”

John Gaeddert, MPH ’10

Data Manager, Frontier Science & Technology Research Foundation

Gaeddert decided to return to his alma mater for a Master of
Public Health degree. “I knew that UB would be much more
affordable than a private college,” he said. “I also
knew that because of the School of Public Health and Health
Professions’ ties to the Western New York community, I would
be able to make connections that would help me during and after
graduate school.

Invaluable Experience

“Getting my MPH at UB gave me a well-rounded
education,” he said. “Aside from the public health
basics, such as epidemiology, biostatistics, health behavior,
environmental health and health care administration, I took classes
on topics dedicated to public health in global settings, health
behavior promotion and obesity.”

Impressed with the dedicated faculty members within the school,
Gaeddert said their passion for the field enhanced his classes.
Additionally, his internship with the Erie County Health Department
provided valuable hands-on experience and introduced him “to
the many different aspects of public health in Western New
York.”

Real-world Success

In his current role as a data manager with the not-for-profit Frontier Science &
Technology Research Foundation, Inc., Gaeddert works with study
teams for clinical trials. He assembles the necessary paperwork and
forms, and communicates with study teams and site staff to ensure
that the data is timely and accurate. He also volunteers with the
Greater Buffalo Chapter of the American Red Cross.

Gaeddert’s advice to current students to get the most out
of their educational experiences? “Studying hard and learning
the material is essential, but it is just as important to look at
the ‘outside world’ and consider how to apply your time
and abilities to those challenges. This is true when you are
gathering information for a class project, when you are working a
summer job or internship, and when you are looking for full-time
work after graduation.”